Is English Ivy toxic to dogs?
Hedera helix
Symptoms in dogs
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- hypersalivation
- abdominal pain
- increased thirst
What to do if your dog ate this plant
- Remove any visible plant material from your dog's mouth.
- Rinse the mouth gently with water if your pet allows it.
- Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian.
- Contact your vet immediately, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (consultation fee may apply).
- If possible, bring a sample of the plant or a clear photo to the vet.
- Watch for: persistent drooling, swelling around mouth/face, trouble breathing or swallowing, or repeated vomiting — these warrant emergency care.
Why is it toxic?
English Ivy contains triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin), polyacetylene compounds (falcarinol, didehydrofalcarinol). When chewed, these compounds release into the mouth and digestive tract, causing irritation and the symptoms listed above.
Prevention tips
- Place the plant in a hanging basket or on a high shelf out of dog reach.
- Use bitter-tasting pet-safe sprays on lower leaves as a deterrent.
- Provide your dog with their own safe greenery (cat grass for cats, pet-safe herbs for dogs).
- Train your dog away from houseplants with positive reinforcement.
Pet-safe alternatives
If you love how English Ivy looks but want a dog-safe option, try one of these.
Frequently asked questions
Is English Ivy toxic to dogs?
Yes. English Ivy is rated moderate toxicity for dogs by the ASPCA. It contains triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin), polyacetylene compounds (falcarinol, didehydrofalcarinol).
What happens if my dog eats English Ivy?
Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, abdominal pain, increased thirst.
What should I do if my dog ate this plant?
Remove any plant material from the mouth, rinse the mouth with water, and contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. Bring a sample of the plant if you can.